Fresh Off the Farm
Consider them the original industrial lights. Since these gooseneck sconces with wide-brimmed shades first graced the exteriors of agricultural buildings in the 1930s, barn lights have gone through more than a few changes. Originally made of steel coated with green porcelain enamel, they were styled with slimmer, flared shades when they surfaced outside gas stations and storefronts a few years later; they got protective bulb cages as warehouse and factory lamps, and went aluminum in the 1960s. But throughout this evolution, barn-style lights have continued to provide a glare-free expanse of light capable of illuminating large spaces.
Today’s versions come in a wide range of finishes, sizes, and colors. With optional glass globes, these souped-up sconces can hang just about anywhere, from rustic cottages to contemporary homes. And while most are rated for exterior use, they make great indoor lamps, too. Here, 12 that prove barn lights work well beyond the farm.
TOH Pro Tip: “Barn-light shades can be heavy. So before mounting, it’s a good idea to switch out your plastic junction box for a steel or metal one, easily found at home centers. That way the fixture will be sure not to fall off the wall.” —Bryan Scott, owner, Barn Light Electric
Fluted Flair
Made of: Aluminum with a black powder coating
Shade width: 16 inches
Where to hang it: Above a side door, where its whimsical but versatile shape won’t have to compete for attention with other light fixtures.
About $248; Rejuvenation
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Colorful Cage
Made of: Galvanized steel with a built-in red cage and ribbed glass
Shade width: 16 inches
Where to hang it: In a country-style kitchen to throw a spotlight on a windowless breakfast nook.
About $323; Barn Light Electric Company
Cobalt Colored
Made of: Aluminum with a metallic-blue powder coating
Shade width: 12 inches
Where to hang it: Over an outdoor grill to cast helpful task light. Its fun color will surely perk up any evening BBQ.
About $304; Lighting Universe
Edison Era
Made of: Solid brass with a nickel finish
Shade width: 10 inches
Where to hang it: In a home office filled with warmly stained woodwork or as a pair flanking the living room sofa for an industrial-feel accent.
About $219; Littman Brothers
Retro Charm
Made of: Aluminum with a baked-on red enamel finish
Shade width: 10 inches
Where to hang it: Use a pair of these compact lights to frame a front door or as an unexpected accent above bedside tables.
About $217; Barn Light Electric Company
Domed Design
Made of: Aluminum with caramel powder coating
Shade width: 12 inches
Where to hang it: Place one every 3 to 5 feet along exterior walls to light up a wraparound porch or back deck after dark.
About $240; Lighting Universe
Inner Glow
Made of: Aluminum with a baked-on dark green enamel finish
Shade width: 12 inches
Where to hang it: In the mudroom of a cottage or bungalow, where its elongated shape and cage cutouts will echo the home’s clean lines.
About $308; Barn Light Electric Company
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Nostalgic Feel
Made of: Aluminum with a green powder coating
Shade width: 14 inches
Where to hang it: Against cedar siding or in a family room with exposed rafters, where its rustic simplicity will look at home.
About $221; Rejuvenation
Already Weathered
Made of: Aluminum shade and stainless-steel cage with a hand-painted finish
Shade width: 10½ inches
Where to hang it: On a post by a back porch, where its globe- style bulb can light up nearby garden paths.
About $98; Bellacor
Well Aged
Made of: Solid copper with a patinated finish
Shade width: 12 inches
Where to hang it: Against a brick wall, where its verdigris patina will visually pop, complemented by the soft glow of its frosted glass bulb cover.
About $394; SignBracketStore.com
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Nautical Style
Made of: Polished solid copper
Shade width: 12 inches
Where to hang it: Let it shine in a crisp blue-and-white kitchen or cast a warm glow amid cherry cabinets.
About $138; CSN Lighting
Guiding Light
Made of: Powder-coated aluminum
Shade width: 16 inches
Where to hang it: Over a garage door so the reflective white interior of its broad shade can work the night shift illuminating a dark driveway.
About $218; Barn Light Electric Company